News & Updates from Federation

Three Years Later, We Don’t Have to Carry This Alone

Wednesday, October 7

Three years after October 7, Hen Mazzig reflects on grief, Jewish identity, antisemitism, and the importance of making room for one another across different experiences and perspectives.

Walking Through the Same Doors, Ten Years Later

Wednesday, October 7

Ella A., Senior Shlicha and Head of the Israeli Delegation to DC

Ten years after first arriving in Greater Washington, a returning educator reflects on Shlichut, Jewish connection, the impact of October 7, and the power of authentic relationships to build hope and resilience.

Three Years After October 7, There is Still Work to Do

Tuesday, October 6

Three years after October 7, Federation continues to stand with communities across Israel, evolving from emergency relief to trauma support, economic recovery and long-term rebuilding—helping families, individuals and communities take the next step toward resilience and hope.

Between Fear and Love

Friday, October 2

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

As the October 7 anniversary returns, how can the Jewish community channel grief and passion into a future shaped by both vigilance and love? Drawing on Rav Joseph Soloveitchik’s Kol Dodi Dofek, this reflection explores the tension between self-protection and moral aspiration.

More Than a Mission: Greater Washington’s Growing Bond with Kibbutz Nir Oz

Wednesday, September 30

More than 25 members of Greater Washington’s Jewish community traveled to Israel for an eight-day volunteer mission, deepening a growing partnership with Kibbutz Nir Oz through service, solidarity, and personal connections.

Why I Chose Federation

Friday, September 25

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

A Jewish Federation’s capacity to spur impact for and on behalf of a Jewish community is unparalleled. By engaging individuals, partnering with organizations, and sparking community-wide action, Federation can convert community potential into forward motion.

imadi Makes Dreams Come True for Local Jewish Children

Tuesday, September 22

For Roey, imadi opened the door to a Jewish summer camp experience that once felt out of reach. With personalized support for his health needs, he discovered new adventures, friendships, independence, and the joy of saying, “I did this at camp.”

What Our Community Needs From Us

Friday, September 18

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

Federation is entering a new chapter of Jewish life—one focused on staying connected across lines of difference, serving the full breadth of the Jewish DMV, and working together toward a common future grounded in justice and Jewish peoplehood.

We Asked for This Instead of Party Gifts

Tuesday, September 15

By Ellen Kagen Waghelstein

A joyful birthday celebration became the beginning of a lifelong philanthropic journey. Through Donor Advised Funds, intentional giving, and the Open More Possibilities initiative, one family reflects on building a culture of generosity and passing Jewish values to the next generation.

What Values Should Guide Jewish Life?

Friday, September 11

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

Rabbi David Stav identifies two core Jewish values: standing against immoral behavior and loyalty to family, community, nation, and people. Adding humility to the framework, this reflection explores how justice, peoplehood, and open conversation can shape a vibrant collective future.

What 300 Jewish Leaders Can Teach Us About Showing Up in a Difficult Moment

Wednesday, September 9

Three hundred Jewish leaders gathered for the National Young Leadership Cabinet Retreat—and discovered that across communities, careers and Jewish experiences, they share the same concerns, responsibilities and commitment to building a stronger Jewish future.

A Full Table for a Sweet New Year

Tuesday, September 8

Rosh Hashanah brings familiar tastes, recipes, and traditions to Jewish families. With support from Federation, Yad Yehuda is helping ensure families facing financial pressure can access kosher food and celebrate the Jewish New Year with dignity and joy.

Four Generations, One Roof

Friday, September 4

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

Thirty years of family beach week—and four generations under one roof—reminded me what it takes to stay connected. In Jewish life, peoplehood gives us the strength to honor our differences while remaining committed to one another.

What Happens When We Keep Talking About Israel

Wednesday, August 26

Hila, Federation Community Shlicha

At an “Ask Me Anything” gathering, young American Jews and an Israeli Shlicha have an honest conversation about Israel, October 7, identity, and the complicated relationship between Israel and American Jewry.

Turning Gratitude Into Legacy

Wednesday, August 26

Hilary Smith Kapner, Federation Legacy Donor

A scholarship for a six-week NFTY trip to Israel at age 17 sparked a lifelong love for Israel and Jewish community work. Today, that experience inspires a commitment to legacy giving and creating opportunities for the next generation to deepen their Jewish identity.

The Winter Bella Thought She Would Face Alone

Wednesday, August 26

In Odesa, 79-year-old Bella faced freezing winters, power outages, and rising costs alone. Support from The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington and JDC provides food, medicine, winter assistance, homecare, and a vital reminder that she remains part of a Jewish community.

The Strength of Jewish Peoplehood

Friday, July 31

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

Earlier this month I traveled to Ukraine, Georgia, and Poland with Federation leaders to witness the impact of our partnership with JDC. From resilient communities rebuilding Jewish life to centuries of enduring tradition, the trip reaffirmed the power of investing in one another.

Public Investment Strengthens Community Security Across Greater Washington

Wednesday, July 29

Keeping our Jewish community safe requires trusted partnerships, coordinated planning, and community-wide action. Thanks to a new $180,000 grant, JShield is expanding free security training, grant assistance, and emergency preparedness to help Jewish organizations across Greater Washington stay safe and resilient.